Voice Actor Matt Ryan Faces Legal Heat from Ubisoft Over Black Flag Remarks
2025-08-01 08:59:47Matt Ryan, the talented performer behind Edward Kenway in Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, has found himself in unexpected legal waters with game publisher Ubisoft. Recent developments suggest the actor's casual comments about a potential remaster may have violated confidentiality agreements, prompting legal action from the French gaming giant.
While legal disputes between game companies are commonplace, it's unusual for developers to target their own talent. This situation highlights the strict non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that voice actors and developers must adhere to, even years after a game's initial release.
The controversy stems from a fan interaction at an autograph signing event. When questioned about a potential Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag remaster, Ryan appeared visibly uncomfortable, revealing that 'the company' (understood to be Ubisoft) had threatened legal action over previous comments he made about the project.
Earlier in June 2025, Ryan had playfully hinted at a remaster during another signing event, suggesting a fan might need to replay the original game. While seemingly innocuous, these remarks were apparently enough for Ubisoft to consider them a breach of contract.
This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the tight-lipped nature of game development. With the gaming industry's increasing focus on remasters and remakes, companies are becoming more vigilant about protecting unannounced projects. Fans hoping for news about a potential Black Flag remaster will likely need to wait for an official announcement from Ubisoft itself.
The original Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, released in 2013, remains one of the most beloved entries in the franchise, blending traditional Assassin's Creed gameplay with innovative naval combat and pirate-themed adventures. Its enduring popularity makes the prospect of a remaster particularly exciting for long-time fans.